Seoul: President Lee Jae Myung announced his commitment to respecting North Korea's political system and reassured that he will not pursue unification by absorption. He pledged to revive the 2018 inter-Korean military agreement to mitigate tensions, during a speech commemorating the Korean Peninsula's liberation from Japanese colonial rule. According to Yonhap News Agency, Lee's address coincided with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un's sister, Kim Yo-jong, dismissing Lee's recent peace gesture as unrealistic. Lee extended a reconciliatory message to North Korea, articulating his vision for a denuclearized Korean Peninsula during the Liberation Day ceremony at the Sejong Center for Performing Arts. He emphasized non-hostility and respect for North Korea's current system while advocating for the restoration of military trust through gradual steps as part of his strategy. Lee asserted that the denuclearization of North Korea is crucial for ensuring peace in the region. He also noted the importance of building t rust to foster dialogue, expressing the hope that Pyongyang would respond positively to Seoul's initiatives. Restoring the military agreement, which was paused during the conservative Yoon Suk Yeol administration, was among Lee's campaign promises. Since assuming office, Lee has taken measures to enhance inter-Korean relations, including halting propaganda broadcasts and urging activists to cease balloon launches across the border. Despite these efforts, Kim Yo-jong refuted claims about North Korea dismantling its propaganda speakers. In his address, Lee also highlighted the significance of Japan-South Korea relations, advocating for "forward-looking, mutually beneficial cooperation" through active diplomatic engagement. He plans to visit Tokyo for discussions with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba before meeting U.S. President Donald Trump. Lee expressed a desire for Japan to confront historical grievances and redefine bilateral ties. During his upcoming Japan visit, Lee aims to strengthen trilateral cooperation with the United States and discuss regional stability. Ahead of his U.S. visit, he committed to addressing economic and security challenges, focusing on opportunities in advanced technologies such as semiconductors and AI. Lee's forthcoming summit with Trump is expected to cover alliance security and industrial cooperation in sectors like semiconductors and shipbuilding, following a recent trade agreement between South Korea and the U.S., as per the presidential office.